How we do research

We research many projects and services to make sure they bring value to our ratepayers and residents.

We investigate whether our projects and services are working like they should, and whether the benefits justify the costs of our key projects. Our research helps planners and decision-makers understand the value of our investments and helps them compare different investment options.

Our research frameworks

We use different research frameworks depending on the type of project.

Economic Impact Assessment (EIA)

This type of assessment examines the direct, indirect and flow-on effects of a project or service to the economy. This includes how a project will affect local GDP, employment and household income. EIAs are used mainly on projects that aim to rejuvenate the city, such as the Riverside Promenade project.

Social Return on Investment (SROI)

This is how we assess projects aimed at providing the community with better social services. We use this framework to assess services such as Libraries, Museums, Community Hubs and social and recreational programmes. SROI analyses how the people who use a service will be affected as well as the amenity value created by that service. In this way we can measure the holistic benefits of a service or programme.

Other kinds of research

We also use other powerful analytical methods, depending on the nature of the study. We use forecasting, hedonic value estimation and multiple regression analysis to help assess some projects. Reviewing the planning, execution and results of comparable projects around the world is also an important part of Council’s investigations.

A significant part of this research involves consulting with specialists, as well as surveying our residents and ratepayers to find out more about their views and expectations.

We want to help Lower Hutt people understand the work and thinking behind Council’s key projects. You can read different kinds of reports below – we’ve ordered them based on the kind of research that has gone into the project.

Some key research projects

These sample documents will give you an idea of the scope of the research we conduct, and how our research documents are laid out.